Get the Dirt on Deep Cleaning

(Family Features) A deep clean is a surefire way to freshen up your home. In order to create a cleaner, healthier household environment, you need to be sure you're using the right methods and tools to get the job done.

Fresh air and an allergen-reduced environment are important aspects of a healthy home. These tips will help create and maintain a clean and healthy home without harsh chemicals or toxins by minimizing the presence of dust - which is comprised of plant pollen, human and animal hairs, textile and paper fibers, soil minerals, human skin cells and other materials that can be found in the local environment.

Scrub with good sense. Not all cleaning agents are created equal. For example, those containing chlorine can not only damage your eyes, but also lead to a host of respiratory problems. Many experts also believe fragrant sprays and cleansers can pose a risk. Opt instead for natural cleansing agents or make your own at home using ingredients such as peroxide, baking soda or vinegar. Always be sure to test a small area to avoid discoloration or other damage.

Focus on flooring. If you enjoy the cushy feel of carpet under your feet, commit to extra cleaning to keep dust mites and other offenders at bay. Rely on a high-powered, filtration bag vacuum, such as the Oreck Elevate Collection of lightweight, easy-to-maneuver uprights, which not only trap dirt, dust and allergens at 99 percent, even non-visible particles, but also remove more of them upon disposal without reintroducing them back into the air in your home.

Keep appliances sparkling. Not only can dust and dirt hide underneath refrigerators, stoves, washers and dryers, but food splatter and unpleasant odors can often be lingering as well. Microwaving a wet washcloth or bowl of water for a few minutes can help loosen any stuck-on food and make it easier to wipe down the interior with warm, soapy water. And pouring a capful of vinegar where you would place detergent in your dishwasher or washing machine before running an empty cycle can help eliminate odors and remove hard water deposits.

Improve air quality. Don't just clean surfaces; clean the air to catch dust before it settles. Experts, including those at the Environmental Protection Agency, have found that indoor air can actually be up to five times dirtier than the air outdoors. Keep your indoor air clean with an air purifier such as the Oreck Air Refresh two-in-one air purifier and humidifier, which gives you more control over the quality of air you breathe by removing 99 percent of unwanted dust, allergens and odors while simultaneously adding moisture to the air and managing humidity in dry home environments. And, the humidifier lets you avoid the dry skin, static electricity and itchy eyes and throat that are often attributed to rooms that lack moisture.

Launder your linens. When you're working to rid your home of potential dirt, dust and allergens, it can be easy to overlook linens and upholstery. However, curtains, bedding, throw pillows and even your furniture cushions can accumulate a layer of film you don't even realize is there. Make it a regular practice to wash linens in hot water and steam clean cushions to part with unwanted particles.

With the correct products and practices, you can give your home the true refresh it needs. Find more products to help create a fresher, cleaner, and healthier home at oreck.com.

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